{"id":358,"date":"2019-04-12T15:10:46","date_gmt":"2019-04-12T19:10:46","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/nortonhealthcaretest1.flywheelsites.com\/?page_id=358"},"modified":"2026-05-04T16:42:56","modified_gmt":"2026-05-04T20:42:56","slug":"c-section","status":"publish","type":"service","link":"https:\/\/nortonhealthcare.com\/services-and-conditions\/obstetrics-and-gynecology\/services\/pregnancy\/birthing-options\/c-section\/","title":{"rendered":"What to Expect From a Cesarean (C-section) Delivery"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"card card-callout float-xl-end ms-xl-3  w-xl-35 text-center\">\n\t<div class=\"card-body\">\n\t\t\n\n<i class=\"fa-light text-primary mb-3 fa-5x fa-person-pregnant\" ><\/i>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\" id=\"h-newly-pregnant\">Newly Pregnant?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">We\u2019re here for you \u2013 and everything to come.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Call our <em>Welcome to Pregnancy Connection Line<\/em> to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Find a provider \u2022 Schedule your first prenatal visit \u2022<br> Get pregnancy information<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-bootstrap-blocks-button\">\n\t<a\n\t\thref=\"tel:+15025592229\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"btn btn-primary\"\n\t>\n\t\t(502) 559-2229 (BABY)\t<\/a>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mon-Fri 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A cesarean birth (C-section) is a surgical procedure to deliver a baby when a vaginal birth isn\u2019t possible or safe. Here\u2019s what to expect from a C-section.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A C-section is performed through incisions in the abdomen and uterus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A C-section delivery might be planned in advance due to complications, or if you\u2019ve had a previous C-section and aren\u2019t considering a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/nortonhealthcare.com\/news\/what-are-the-risks-benefits-of-vbac-vaginal-birth-after-c-section\/\">vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC)<\/a>. However, the need for a first-time C-section might not become obvious until labor begins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-reasons-for-a-c-section\">Reasons for a C-section<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A C-section may be recommended if:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Baby is in an abnormal position.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Baby is in distress.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Labor isn\u2019t progressing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mom has a major a health concern.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>There\u2019s an issue with the placenta.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The umbilical cord prolapses (drops) ahead of baby.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019ve had a C-section, it\u2019s often possible to attempt a VBAC. In some cases, however, your doctor might recommend a repeat C-section, depending on the type of uterine incision and other factors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-to-expect-during-a-c-section\">What to Expect During a C-section<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">C-sections typically are performed under regional anesthesia, which numbs the lower part of the body and allows you to remain awake. Common choices include a spinal block and an&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/nortonhealthcare.com\/news\/epidural-for-labor\/\">epidural block<\/a>. In an emergency, general anesthesia may be required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A screen will be used to protect the sterile environment of the incision site. The doctor will make an incision in the abdomen through which the baby will be delivered. The placenta will be removed from your uterus, and the incisions will be closed with sutures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If regional anesthesia is used, you\u2019ll be able to hear and see the baby right after delivery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-c-section-recovery\">C-section Recovery<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because a C-section is a surgical procedure, it may require a longer recovery than a vaginal delivery. You\u2019ll likely remain in the hospital for a few days. During your stay, our team will monitor you to make sure you recover well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can start breastfeeding as soon as you feel up to it. Our lactation-certified nurses and lactation consultants can teach you how to position your baby so that you\u2019re comfortable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you are home, expect your C-section incision to remain tender for several weeks, although pain should begin decreasing after a few days. Signs of infection include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Redness or swelling at incision site<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fever<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Worsening pain<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You may have vaginal bleeding for up to six weeks. It will slowly become less red, then pink, and then will have more of a yellow or white color.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-pets-and-surgical-incisions\">Pets and Surgical Incisions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s important that you keep germs carried by pets away from the C-section incision until it heals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tips to prevent a surgical site infection:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Protect your incision from direct contact with your pet.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do not let your pet sniff, lick or get close to your incision.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wash your hands after touching your pet and before touching your incision.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>While showering, clean the incision with antibacterial soap.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wear clean clothes daily that have not been in contact with your pet.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ensure your bedding is clean and not in contact with your pet.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoid sleeping with your pet until your incision heals.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-to-help-yourself-recover-from-a-c-section\">How to Help Yourself Recover from a C-section<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Take it easy<\/strong>. Rest whenever possible, avoid strenuous activity and do not lift anything heavier than your baby.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Relieve pain<\/strong>. Your health care provider might recommend a heating pad and pain relievers to soothe incision soreness.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Avoid sex<\/strong>\u00a0for six weeks after your C-section to help prevent infection.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Take short walks<\/strong>\u00a0once you feel up to it. This will increase your strength.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"card card-callout    \">\n\t<div class=\"card-body\">\n\t\t\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-to-expect-from-norton-women-s-care\">What to Expect from Norton Women\u2019s Care<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">More mothers in Louisville and Southern Indiana choose to deliver their babies at Norton Hospital or Norton Women\u2019s &amp; Children\u2019s Hospital than with any other hospital system in the area.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignright size-thumbnail\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"150\" height=\"145\" src=\"https:\/\/nortonhealthcare.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/maternity-badge-usnwr-2026-150x145.png?wsr\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1168107\" srcset=\"https:\/\/nortonhealthcare.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/maternity-badge-usnwr-2026-150x145.png 150w, https:\/\/nortonhealthcare.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/maternity-badge-usnwr-2026.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 150px) 100vw, 150px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We deliver more than 8,000 babies a year. We\u2019re close to you with more than 90 providers at more than 25 locations around Louisville and Southern Indiana. Choosing Norton Women\u2019s Care gives you many options for how delivery day could go \u2014 all with the confidence of knowing that our obstetrics and pediatric specialists are there to help. With Norton Women\u2019s Care, you\u2019ll find:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/nortonhealthcare.com\/services-and-conditions\/obstetrics-and-gynecology\/services\/pregnancy\/during-pregnancy\/choosing-birth-option\">The birth experience you want<\/a>: You can choose natural childbirth, a midwife, labor tub, nitrous oxide and other birthing options. We\u2019ll recommend a C-section (cesarean section) or induced labor only if it\u2019s medically necessary.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Preparation: Our specialists offer the support you need, including&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/nortonhealthcare.com\/services-and-conditions\/obstetrics-and-gynecology\/services\/pregnancy\/during-pregnancy\/childbirth-classes\/\">free Lamaze and other childbirth classes<\/a>,&nbsp;<a href=\"\/services-and-conditions\/obstetrics-and-gynecology\/services\/pregnancy\/during-pregnancy\/childbirth-classes\/\">new parent classes<\/a>,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/nortonhealthcare.com\/services-and-conditions\/obstetrics-and-gynecology\/services\/pregnancy\/after-childbirth\/breastfeeding\/\">breastfeeding support<\/a>,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/nortonhealthcare.com\/services-and-conditions\/obstetrics-and-gynecology\/services\/pregnancy\/during-pregnancy\/childbirth-classes\/\">child safety classes&nbsp;<\/a>and more.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Confidence and quality in care: Norton Women\u2019s Care has been recognized as High Performing \u2014 the highest rating available \u2014 for maternity care with fewer complications and C-sections, plus breastfeeding support and other benefits.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>We offer the highest-level (Level IV)&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/nortonchildrens.com\/services\/nicu\/\">neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)&nbsp;<\/a>in Louisville and Southern Indiana at Norton Children\u2019s Hospital, and a sophisticated Level III NICU at Norton Women\u2019s &amp; Children\u2019s Hospital.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Around-the-clock OB\/GYN care is available at Norton Hospital and Norton Women\u2019s &amp; Children\u2019s Hospital emergency departments.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Our board-certified&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/nortonhealthcare.com\/services-and-conditions\/obstetrics-and-gynecology\/services\/pregnancy\/during-pregnancy\/maternal-fetal-medicine\">maternal-fetal medicine specialists&nbsp;<\/a> can help guide you through a high-risk pregnancy, from treating preexisting diabetes in the pregnant patient to a fetal echocardiogram to diagnose a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/nortonchildrens.com\/services\/cardiology\/\">congenital heart condition<\/a> before a baby is born.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Medicare, Medicaid and most major commercial insurance plans are accepted.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Convenient access to your medical record: Communicate with your health care provider, get lab results, renew prescriptions and more through your free&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/mychart.nortonhealthcare.org\/mychart\/\">Norton MyChart<\/a>&nbsp;account.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Norton Women\u2019s Doula Program is supported by the Norton Children\u2019s Hospital Foundation. Through donations, volunteerism and community support, the foundation can provide funding for equipment, new technologies, clinical research, child advocacy and health education for patients, families, medical staff and the community. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/nortonchildrens.com\/foundation\/ways-to-help\/\"><strong>HelpNortonChildrens.com<\/strong><\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"featured_media":337466,"parent":357,"menu_order":7,"template":"","class_list":["post-358","service","type-service","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.9 (Yoast SEO v27.9) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>C-section: What to Expect | Norton Healthcare Louisville, Ky.<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"A cesarean birth (C-section) is a surgical procedure to deliver a baby when a vaginal birth isn\u2019t possible or safe. 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